Isang Yun

Isang Yun, born on 17 September 1917 in Sancheong, Korea, was a significant composer who spent much of his career in West Germany. As the son of poet Yun Ki-hyon, he faced initial opposition to a music career from his father but eventually received formal training. After Korean independence, he engaged in welfare work. In 1955, Yun received the Seoul City Culture Award and subsequently moved to Europe to continue his studies. His works gained international fame, incorporating Eastern musical elements into Western music. Despite facing accusations of espionage and a prison sentence in South Korea, he was released in 1969. He took German citizenship in 1971 and never returned to South Korea, focusing on teaching and promoting musical and cultural exchange between North and South Korea. Yun died on 3 November 1995 in Berlin.